Last minute private credit interview tips?

Hi all,

I have a variety of private credit interviews lined up in various stages, and would really appreciate advice on what to “cram” over the next several days.

For reference, I have about a year in LevFin under my belt but ultimately had to leave IB earlier this year for personal reasons. That being said, my last interview really dug into the credit metrics of my deals which I unfortunately can’t remember, and clearly I should’ve saved down some notes on my personal computer, but oh well… that ship has sailed.

I feel like I have a fairly good pulse on credit market trends, but lack modeling reps and know the inability to remember specific metrics for my deals is a bad look. I’m able to talk well about the business/acquisition and market trends to support the credit decisions, but that’s kinda where my memory ends.

So how should I salvage what I can to hopefully be a successful candidate? If you think I’m doomed then that’s fine, but I’d still like to go down swinging

8 Comments
 

Hey there,

First off, don't worry, you're not doomed! You've got this. Here are some last-minute tips to help you prepare for your private credit interviews:

  1. Review your past deals: Even if you can't remember the specific metrics, try to recall the general structure and key points of the deals you worked on. What was the purpose of the deal? What were the major risks and how were they mitigated? What was the outcome? These are all good points to discuss in an interview.

  2. Brush up on credit metrics: Make sure you understand key credit metrics like Debt/EBITDA, Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, and Interest Coverage Ratio. Be prepared to discuss how these metrics can impact a company's creditworthiness.

  3. Understand the current credit market: You mentioned that you feel like you have a good pulse on credit market trends, which is great! Be ready to discuss these trends and how they might impact a company's ability to raise debt.

  4. Practice modeling: If you're rusty on your modeling skills, now is the time to brush up. There are plenty of resources available online, including the WSO Academy, that can help you get up to speed.

  5. Prepare for behavioral questions: Don't forget to prepare for behavioral questions as well. Interviewers will want to know why you're interested in private credit and what you can bring to the table.

  6. Stay positive: Lastly, remember to stay positive and confident. You've already made it this far, and you have the skills and experience to succeed. Good luck!

    Sources: Private Credit Interview Advice, Private Credit Resources and Prep

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Just wanted to touch on this board and ask how the interviews went? Was there anything notable you experienced that could be helpful for someone in a similar position currently prepping? Thanks!  

 

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